A suspected learner’s licence corruption syndicate allegedly charged applicants R2,000 per licence and processed as many as 30 licences in a single transaction, according to an investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
The alleged operation involved suspects from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo and centred on the Marble Hall Driving Licence Testing Centre in Limpopo.
A joint operation between SAPS Crime Intelligence and the SIU has resulted in the arrest of a suspect who was reportedly found in possession of several learner’s licences.
How the alleged scheme worked
According to the SIU, a suspect from KwaZulu-Natal allegedly solicited R2,000 from applicants, promising to obtain learner’s licences without them undergoing the required testing process.
The suspect allegedly coordinated with an accomplice in Limpopo, who in turn allegedly worked with examiners at the Marble Hall testing centre to process fraudulent applications.
Investigators uncovered intelligence indicating that the alleged operation handled 20 to 30 learner’s licences at a time, pointing to a potentially organised system rather than isolated transactions.
Read | RTMC and police break driving licence fraud ring in North West
Suspects from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo were allegedly intercepted while travelling to collect the illicitly issued licences.
Road safety concerns
The allegations raise concerns beyond corruption at a licensing centre.
A learner’s licence is intended to confirm that an applicant has demonstrated the required knowledge of road rules before progressing through the licensing process. Bypassing that test could allow people onto the road without having met an important legal requirement.
For motorists and professional drivers, the integrity of the licensing system is therefore a road-safety issue as well as a law-enforcement concern.
SIU investigation continues
The SIU is investigating the matter under its Department of Transport proclamation.
Under Proclamation R.37 of 2017, as amended by Proclamation 191 of 2024, the SIU is authorised to investigate allegations of corruption within the licensing division, including the unlawful issuing of learner’s licences, manipulation of the National Traffic Information System and unlawful conduct by officials.
The Marble Hall operation remains ongoing, and further arrests are possible.
Criminal and disciplinary action will follow against anyone found to have participated in or facilitated the alleged corruption.
The investigation is expected to establish the full extent of the suspected cash-for-learner’s-licence operation and identify others who may have been involved.
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